Demolition Heavy Equipment Operator

COMPANY OVERVIEW

AAI has been a trusted name in specialized contracting services since 1983. Based in Lansing, Michigan, we focus on full-service demolition and hazardous materials remediation. Our commitment to quality service extends beyond our projects; we are dedicated to enhancing the communities we serve and making way for progress. We believe strongly in our core values and foster a make-it-happen attitude. If you align with the following core values, please continue reading further and apply today if this opportunity is what you are looking for. Our core values are:

• Leadership
• Improvement
• Flexibility
• Teamwork
• Solid Principles

SUMMARY

Join our fast-growing demolition team as a Heavy Equipment Operator and be a key player in our mission to get the job done safely and efficiently. We’re a dynamic company with a "Make It Happen" culture, where hard work, skill, and teamwork drive success.

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you’ll operate and maintain heavy machinery (excavators, bulldozers, loaders, etc.) to demolish structures, clear debris, and prepare sites for new development. Your expertise will ensure projects are completed on time, with precision and a strong focus on safety.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead, manage, and hold accountable all laborers, drivers, or other AAI employees on your site
• Operate a variety of heavy equipment to demolish a structure safely. An excavator will be the predominant piece of equipment operated.
• Coordinate trucking/hauling for your sites
• Plan and carry out the sequence of each demolition
• Ensure all safety policies and procedures are being adhered to
• Ensure all work is done in compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, laws, and standards
• Keep dust, debris, and other materials contained to the work site and not tracking into adjacent roadways or properties.

LEADERSHIP & SOFT SKILLS

• Crew supervision – Experience training and mentoring junior operators and laborers.
• Safety-first mindset – Strong record of zero major incidents and enforcement of OSHA/company protocols.
• Problem-solving – Ability to adapt to unexpected challenges (structural instability, hidden hazards, weather delays).
• Communication – Clear coordination with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors.
• Time & resource management – Keeps projects on schedule and within budget.

EDUCATION

High school diploma or GED (preferred but not always required)

EXPERIENCE

• 5 years of hands-on experience operating heavy equipment in demolition (excavators, high-reach machines, bulldozers, shears, grapples, etc.)
• At least 2 years in a supervisory or lead role, directing crews and coordinating with project managers.
• Worked on large-scale, high-risk demolitions such as multi-story buildings, industrial facilities, bridges, or hazardous materials sites.
• Familiar with demolition methods such as mechanical demolition, selective demolition, and deconstruction.

TECHNICAL SKILLS & CERTIFICATIONS

• Mastery of heavy demolition equipment - high reach excavators, wrecking balls, pulverizers, shears, and materials processors
• Advanced safety certifications - OSHA 30, HAZWOPER, 40hr asbestos contractor supervisor, confined space entry, and fall protection.
• Rigging - understanding of rigging and controlled demolition techniques
• Blueprint & plan reading - ability to interpret demolition plans, site surveys, and engineering reports
• Mecanical aptitude - Basic troubleshooting and maintenance of equipment to minimize downtime
• Technology - Ability to adapt to new technologies as deployed such as the use of an iPad to log trucks, manage projects, perform inspections, and manage projects. Specific experience in FieldFlo is desireable.

BENEFITS

• Employer-paid health insurance, which includes medical, dental, and vision
• 401K - 5% company match
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development and certifications.
• A collaborative and innovative work environment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Work setting - Outdoors on construction sites consisting of various terrain with exposure to varying weather conditions and hazards.
• Travel - Travel within the state

If you have a make-it-happen mindset and want to join a fun and motivated team at a growing company, please apply today!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $30.00 - $42.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 – 60 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Monday to Friday
• Morning shift
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Lansing, MI 48906 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $30 - $42